​Dear SD43 families,

I hope you had an enjoyable spring break with family and friends. As the weather warms and the days grow longer, we are also seeing an easing of COVID-19 restrictions in our communities, and this includes a gradual transition in schools.

The Ministry of Education and the BCCDC released updated information on March 10^th in response to the Provincial Health Officer's announcement lifting COVID-19 restrictions in the community.

What to expect when students return to school:

• Masks will no longer be required for students and staff, although individuals may choose to wear one. Non-medical masks and hand sanitizer will continue to be available at school sites.
• Visitors and spectators can be included at sporting events, performances, and school events following COVID-19 safety protocols.
• Capacity limits for school gatherings and events including members of the community beyond students, staff and necessary volunteers will continue to be at 50 people or 50% operating capacity – whichever is greater (until end of day April 7, 2022)
• Event planning, for graduation celebrations, leaving ceremonies, etc., may commence. Restrictions on field trips will be eased.
• Staggered break times may be modified depending on school configurations and unique circumstances. Efforts will continue to be made to reduce crowding at pick-up and drop-off times. Parents/caregivers and visitors should continue to respect the personal space of others while on school grounds.
• Learning environment configurations will continue to maximize the use of space, where practicable.
• Daily health checks, monitoring for symptoms, and use of rapid antigen tests should continue, in addition to frequent handwashing. Individuals exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 should stay home.
  

The following information may be helpful to families (also available on www.sd43.bc.ca):

• Summary of Changes: Provincial COVID-19 Communicable Disease Guidelines for K-12 Settings
• The Provincial COVID-19 Communicable Disease Guidelines for K-12 Settings
• BCCDC: Public Health Communicable Disease Guidance for K-12 Schools
• Government of BC: COVID-19 Safe Schools (translations available)
• BCCDC Rapid Testing at Home
• BTNX Test Kit Instructions
• Government of Canada COVID-19: Travel, testing and borders
  

Updates to protocols and procedures for schools come into effect after spring break on Monday, March 28 as students return to class, but please keep in mind that everyone will have varying degrees of risk tolerance and comfort with these changes. Please be considerate and mindful of others in your school community who may continue to wear a mask or physically distance for their personal comfort. The transition toward sustainable communicable disease management will be gradual and a second step is expected in mid-April to coincide with public health guidance.

We are very much looking forward to welcoming everyone back to school! We encourage you to be patient with each other and respectful of personal decisions on health measures and their adoption.

Sincerely,

Patricia Gartland
Superintendent of Schools/CEO